Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have accumulated valuable experiences during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous possibilities. Both student residences and private accommodations include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
When looking for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and transport between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside the central expanse. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, greatly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating to meet peers from various backgrounds and comparable age groups, which is often harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a fascinating array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London accommodates a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the West End of London, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of culturally rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the vibrancy and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural sectors, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.